Arlington police detectives seek new leads in 2019 killing of 21-year-old man at park
On the night of Aug. 3, 2019, Nicholas Coffman and a friend drove to Deaver Park in Arlington to sell someone a handgun.
Another vehicle with four to five people inside, including the potential buyer, was already in the parking lot waiting for them.
Coffman got out of his friend’s car and briefly talked with one of the passengers in the other vehicle. He was directed to go around the other side, at which point another passenger opened fire on Coffman.
Coffman died at a local hospital after his friend rushed him there, but after the shooting, the suspects drove to Coffman’s home and fired multiple shots at the residence.
Detectives have identified people who were in contact with Coffman that night, but his killer has not been identified.
That’s why this week Arlington police asked for help to generate new leads in the killing of 21-year-old Nicholas Coffman.
“Whoever murdered Nick knew him and where he lived,” according to a statement released by Coffman’s family through Arlington police. “His family believes he was set up with the sole purpose to harm him. Someone knows something, saw something, or has heard something about Nick’s murder and are encouraged to speak out. You can always remain anonymous.”
Arlington police on Wednesday released a video from home surveillance cameras showing the suspect vehicle driving by Coffman’s home. The car is described as a small, dark-colored, four-door sedan, possibly a Dodger Avenger.
“Detectives have investigated this case thoroughly and remain committed to bringing those involved to justice,” said Arlington Police Chief Al Jones in a Wednesday news release. “While our team has identified people who were in contact with Mr. Coffman the night of his death, we still need the public’s help to find his killer.”
The Coffman family said in their statement that they have moved from their Arlington home, which was riddled with bullets from the gunfire.
“Imagine sitting in your living room and bullets flying through your house just inches from where you were sitting,” the family said in their statement. “Being told your son’s been shot and you need to get to the hospital right away. Not being able to see or be with him and after what seemed like an eternity, being told he did not make it. Heart wrenching pain that our family would not wish on anyone.
“Some days are harder than others,” the family said. “Grief is unpredictable and you never know when it will hit. No more memories can be made with Nick because some coward with a gun has no value for human life and is still walking our streets free to kill again.”
Anyone with information about this case is encouraged to call Arlington police at 817-459-5691. Tipsters can also remain anonymous by calling Crime Stoppers of Tarrant County at 817-469-8477.
This story was originally published June 2, 2021 at 12:26 PM.
